Built Quote by Bernard de Mandeville
“Pride and vanity have built more hospitals than all the virtues together,”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Fable of the Bees, Bernard de Mandeville, 1714
Pride and vanity drive people to build institutions like hospitals, suggesting self‑interest can yield societal benefits despite moral flaws.
In simple terms: Self‑interest can lead to public good, like hospitals.
Key Takeaway
Channel personal ambition toward community benefit.
Themes
pride
vanity
societal development
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- policy making
- charitable fundraising
- entrepreneurship
- community projects
Key Concepts
self‑interest
public good
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we ensure altruism alongside self‑interest?
- What safeguards prevent vanity from harming society?
A Different Perspective
Moral corruption can accompany such achievements.
